2023 Judges Tips: Shelley Pearson

What makes a winning nature or bird photograph for you?

Birds are often quite curious and exhibit intriguing behaviour in their natural environment. This creates the potential for extraordinary photographs which will compel viewers to pause and take another look. To improve your chances of taking winning pictures, you can form some good habits in the field. When shooting, always be aware of your surroundings and available light sources. The secret is to keep an eye on your surroundings and always be adaptable. Be prepared for unexpected unique moments or potential interactions. Regularly visit the same birds and locations and observe typical bird behaviour. Position yourself for the breathtaking light show.

What key advice can you offer to entrants?

Develop the habit of changing your settings automatically while shooting rather than pausing to glance at your screen. Even while capturing incredible moments, continue to practice, practice and more practice. The more you do this while maintaining a calm focus, you will develop your instincts to automatically increase and decrease camera settings such as shutter speed, ISO and aperture. Quite often those special moments only last for a fraction of a second. Good luck and happy shooting.